Toddler Therapists in Los Alamitos, CA

Photo of Nina R Barlevy, PsyD, Psychologist
Nina R Barlevy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I love working with individual children, adolescents, and adults to improve their overall happiness and well-being. I have had great success treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and problems with grief and adjustment to other life stressors.
I love working with individual children, adolescents, and adults to improve their overall happiness and well-being. I have had great success treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and problems with grief and adjustment to other life stressors.
(562) 276-2751 View (562) 276-2751
Photo of Ellen 'jen' Slaton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen 'jen' Slaton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Hi – I’m Jen. Are you looking to find help for yourself or your family? For answers, emotional balance, and peace of mind? Often the thought of reaching out is scary. Talking to a stranger about your personal life intimidating. But asking for help can be the bravest first step in creating a better life for you and your loved ones. We are all human, and needing help is normal and necessary at times. I’ve been in therapy myself and looking back, I see how necessary it's been for my emotional and personal development. And, I continue to reach out when my life gets overwhelming. So I encourage you to take the next step here to get help.
Hi – I’m Jen. Are you looking to find help for yourself or your family? For answers, emotional balance, and peace of mind? Often the thought of reaching out is scary. Talking to a stranger about your personal life intimidating. But asking for help can be the bravest first step in creating a better life for you and your loved ones. We are all human, and needing help is normal and necessary at times. I’ve been in therapy myself and looking back, I see how necessary it's been for my emotional and personal development. And, I continue to reach out when my life gets overwhelming. So I encourage you to take the next step here to get help.
(562) 414-4358 View (562) 414-4358
Photo of Terra Johnson, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Terra Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Hi, I'm Terra. I am a psychotherapist located in Los Alamitos, CA. I have over 15 years of experience working with children, parents and families of various backgrounds. Many clients have partnered with me to address concerns about family life and all that it entails. I know that finding a therapist can be hard, and I offer a free 15 min phone consultation so that you can ask me questions and decide whether or not I would be a good fit. We will work collaboratively to address your concerns and to meet your goals. I am dedicated to creating a safe place for you and your family to heal and grow, and look forward to hearing from you.
Hi, I'm Terra. I am a psychotherapist located in Los Alamitos, CA. I have over 15 years of experience working with children, parents and families of various backgrounds. Many clients have partnered with me to address concerns about family life and all that it entails. I know that finding a therapist can be hard, and I offer a free 15 min phone consultation so that you can ask me questions and decide whether or not I would be a good fit. We will work collaboratively to address your concerns and to meet your goals. I am dedicated to creating a safe place for you and your family to heal and grow, and look forward to hearing from you.
(916) 589-6152 View (916) 589-6152
Photo of Annica Nilsson, PPSC, LCSW, RPT-S, IFECMHS, RPF-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annica Nilsson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PPSC, LCSW, RPT-S, IFECMHS, RPF-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
It can be so frustrating when your child is experiencing emotional and behavioral issues. It can often feel like you have tried everything and nothing has worked. I have extensive training and experience with Play Therapy and Family Therapy. This expertise has allowed me to be an integral part of the healing that occurs when both the family and child are given the opportunity to work together on problems in a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering environment.
It can be so frustrating when your child is experiencing emotional and behavioral issues. It can often feel like you have tried everything and nothing has worked. I have extensive training and experience with Play Therapy and Family Therapy. This expertise has allowed me to be an integral part of the healing that occurs when both the family and child are given the opportunity to work together on problems in a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering environment.
(949) 214-4862 View (949) 214-4862
Photo of Kate O'Shaughnessy Nulty, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate O'Shaughnessy Nulty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Healing cannot occur in isolation and as your therapist I will support and guide you on your path. I am a Holistic Psychotherapist in private practice for over 20 years. I was classically trained in psychoanalytic psychotherapy but my style has evolved over the years to be more humanistic and includes various treatment modalities including Somatic Experiencing.I have a special affinity for working with adults who have survived childhood trauma including sexual abuse, physical abuse and developmental trauma. My practice also focuses on Somatic Couples Therapy and Medicine Integration.
Healing cannot occur in isolation and as your therapist I will support and guide you on your path. I am a Holistic Psychotherapist in private practice for over 20 years. I was classically trained in psychoanalytic psychotherapy but my style has evolved over the years to be more humanistic and includes various treatment modalities including Somatic Experiencing.I have a special affinity for working with adults who have survived childhood trauma including sexual abuse, physical abuse and developmental trauma. My practice also focuses on Somatic Couples Therapy and Medicine Integration.
(562) 513-6676 View (562) 513-6676
Photo of Vanessa Miller, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
What is your story? Listening to people’s stories and being a part of their unique journey has always been my passion. The ability to share personal information is not always easy and being open to guidance may not always be natural. I strive to create a supportive environment in which this process becomes more comfortable. My professional experience is centered around working with individuals, children, adolescents and their families.
What is your story? Listening to people’s stories and being a part of their unique journey has always been my passion. The ability to share personal information is not always easy and being open to guidance may not always be natural. I strive to create a supportive environment in which this process becomes more comfortable. My professional experience is centered around working with individuals, children, adolescents and their families.
(562) 418-5781 View (562) 418-5781
Photo of Sheila Brown - Sheila Brown, LMFT, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheila Brown, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Are you looking for a local therapist who specializes in children? Is your child acting out, unfocused, anxious or aggressive? Do they currently have an IEP at school? If so, I can help. Using a combination of solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral assessment, play therapy and family therapy, I work with children who are experiencing severe challenges in their home and school settings. Working together, I help them to develop new ways to focus their energies, calm their minds, and experience success once again.
Are you looking for a local therapist who specializes in children? Is your child acting out, unfocused, anxious or aggressive? Do they currently have an IEP at school? If so, I can help. Using a combination of solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral assessment, play therapy and family therapy, I work with children who are experiencing severe challenges in their home and school settings. Working together, I help them to develop new ways to focus their energies, calm their minds, and experience success once again.
(949) 558-2538 View (949) 558-2538
Photo of Tracy Palmero, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tracy Palmero
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I believe that balance is the key to life. When one area of your life or family is out of balance, it impacts other areas of your life and family. Therapy can help restore the balance in your life. Therapy provides an avenue for change and personal growth.
I believe that balance is the key to life. When one area of your life or family is out of balance, it impacts other areas of your life and family. Therapy can help restore the balance in your life. Therapy provides an avenue for change and personal growth.
(714) 989-6974 View (714) 989-6974
Photo of Samantha Cox, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Cox
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
You are not alone in what you are going through, and your courage to reach out for support is honored and respected. My goal is to create a safe haven and refuge where you can feel understood, supported, and empowered. I believe in fostering a warm and empathic environment that encourages open communication and genuine connection; a place to discover your most authentic self. I aim to establish enough safety to develop self-trust, as well as the ability to connect more effectively to others. Together, we can explore your emotions, work through challenges, and develop strategies for a healthier, more connected (to self/others) life.
You are not alone in what you are going through, and your courage to reach out for support is honored and respected. My goal is to create a safe haven and refuge where you can feel understood, supported, and empowered. I believe in fostering a warm and empathic environment that encourages open communication and genuine connection; a place to discover your most authentic self. I aim to establish enough safety to develop self-trust, as well as the ability to connect more effectively to others. Together, we can explore your emotions, work through challenges, and develop strategies for a healthier, more connected (to self/others) life.
(657) 332-2466 View (657) 332-2466
Photo of Kerttu Cantin - Kerttu Cantin, MA, PsyD, LMFT, MA, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kerttu Cantin, MA, PsyD, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Does it seem like your family is in chaos? Are you frustrated by ongoing emotional and behavioral issues that seem to be invading your relationships? Has every conversation turned into a confrontation? Do you feel like your child and your spouse are not listening to you? Are they withdrawn and defensive? Are you frustrated because you have tried everything in your power to make things better - and nothing seems to work? You deserve a fulfilling, satisfying and enjoyable life. Don't give up hope. I can help you get there. Together we can improve the relationships within your family.
Does it seem like your family is in chaos? Are you frustrated by ongoing emotional and behavioral issues that seem to be invading your relationships? Has every conversation turned into a confrontation? Do you feel like your child and your spouse are not listening to you? Are they withdrawn and defensive? Are you frustrated because you have tried everything in your power to make things better - and nothing seems to work? You deserve a fulfilling, satisfying and enjoyable life. Don't give up hope. I can help you get there. Together we can improve the relationships within your family.
(714) 489-5927 View (714) 489-5927
Photo of Katy Manetta, PhD, Psychologist
Katy Manetta
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I believe that with every new day, there is hope for change. Life brings us so many stressful situations. When you feel it is hard for you to bear the burden alone, I am here to help. I love being a therapist. From our first meeting, you will be able to feel the enthusiasm I have for this work. And within a few sessions, you will likely begin to feel something you may not have felt in a long time...hope.
I believe that with every new day, there is hope for change. Life brings us so many stressful situations. When you feel it is hard for you to bear the burden alone, I am here to help. I love being a therapist. From our first meeting, you will be able to feel the enthusiasm I have for this work. And within a few sessions, you will likely begin to feel something you may not have felt in a long time...hope.
(562) 799-6700 View (562) 799-6700
Photo of Lindsey Sterling, PhD, Psychologist
Lindsey Sterling
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and neurodiversity. I have extensive experience performing comprehensive diagnostic evaluations for youth and adults with suspected ASD and treating conditions associated with ASD, such as anxiety and depression. I also work with individuals who may not be autistic, but seek support for social challenges, stress, and mood. I extend my comprehensive, expert, and compassionate care to your entire family, by offering supportive therapy for siblings and parents of autistic individuals. See www.sterlingautism.com for more information about our clinic.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and neurodiversity. I have extensive experience performing comprehensive diagnostic evaluations for youth and adults with suspected ASD and treating conditions associated with ASD, such as anxiety and depression. I also work with individuals who may not be autistic, but seek support for social challenges, stress, and mood. I extend my comprehensive, expert, and compassionate care to your entire family, by offering supportive therapy for siblings and parents of autistic individuals. See www.sterlingautism.com for more information about our clinic.
(424) 304-0871 View (424) 304-0871
Photo of Michelle Moran, PsyD, IFECMHS, RPF, Psychologist
Michelle Moran
Psychologist, PsyD, IFECMHS, RPF
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Hi, I'm Dr. Michelle Moran. I'm a mom and an advocate for the nurturing of relationships throughout our lifetime. My private practice is focused on supporting families/parents with children ages 0-18. My approach involves taking everything I know about attachment, mindfulness, emotional regulation, infant-parent mental health, reflective practice, child/human development, maternal mental health, trauma, and evidenced based practice to inform my work with clients. I help empower clients by providing emotional safety, guidance, and support in order to increase reflective capacities; as well as increase support systems, as needed.
Hi, I'm Dr. Michelle Moran. I'm a mom and an advocate for the nurturing of relationships throughout our lifetime. My private practice is focused on supporting families/parents with children ages 0-18. My approach involves taking everything I know about attachment, mindfulness, emotional regulation, infant-parent mental health, reflective practice, child/human development, maternal mental health, trauma, and evidenced based practice to inform my work with clients. I help empower clients by providing emotional safety, guidance, and support in order to increase reflective capacities; as well as increase support systems, as needed.
(562) 600-4765 View (562) 600-4765
Photo of Amy R Tyler, APCC, Counselor
Amy R Tyler
Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Making a decision to seek extra help and support during difficult seasons of life is a huge step. Times in life can be especially challenging and stressful. Seeking therapy is a sign of both strength and courage. Amy’s desire is to come along side you and work collaboratively to help you deal any challenges, stressors, difficulties, and or mental health struggles you may be facing. As a therapist, Amy is caring and empathetic while providing you with hope and encouragement to achieve your goals. Amy has experience dealing with a wide variety of relational, emotional, spiritual, and psychological struggles.
Making a decision to seek extra help and support during difficult seasons of life is a huge step. Times in life can be especially challenging and stressful. Seeking therapy is a sign of both strength and courage. Amy’s desire is to come along side you and work collaboratively to help you deal any challenges, stressors, difficulties, and or mental health struggles you may be facing. As a therapist, Amy is caring and empathetic while providing you with hope and encouragement to achieve your goals. Amy has experience dealing with a wide variety of relational, emotional, spiritual, and psychological struggles.
(714) 482-6258 View (714) 482-6258
Photo of Abigail D. Ortega - Love Listen And Play, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abigail D. Ortega - Love Listen And Play
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
My ideal clients span generations, encompassing children, teens, and adults, each with their unique set of challenges and aspirations. Children may grapple with anxiety, behavioral issues, or difficulties adjusting to life changes. Teens often face identity struggles, peer pressure, and academic stress. Adults may contend with relationship conflicts, career transitions, or unresolved trauma. Regardless of age, my clients share a common need for understanding, validation, and support. They seek a safe space to explore their emotions, confront their fears, and cultivate resilience.
My ideal clients span generations, encompassing children, teens, and adults, each with their unique set of challenges and aspirations. Children may grapple with anxiety, behavioral issues, or difficulties adjusting to life changes. Teens often face identity struggles, peer pressure, and academic stress. Adults may contend with relationship conflicts, career transitions, or unresolved trauma. Regardless of age, my clients share a common need for understanding, validation, and support. They seek a safe space to explore their emotions, confront their fears, and cultivate resilience.
(562) 457-6825 View (562) 457-6825
Photo of Valerie Macy-Hurley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie Macy-Hurley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
For as long as I can remember, I have felt called to serve others through compassion, connection & a sense of humor. With 20+ years of experience guiding people of all ages & walks of life to overcome their mental health challenges (including anxiety, depression, OCD, Eating Disorders & ADHD), I have the expertise you’re looking for. I also have extensive experience supporting those with acute & chronic medical conditions, bereavement & trauma (I am trauma-informed-care educated). Additionally, my experience serving diverse populations has fueled my passion for helping others navigate social, medical and educational inequities.
For as long as I can remember, I have felt called to serve others through compassion, connection & a sense of humor. With 20+ years of experience guiding people of all ages & walks of life to overcome their mental health challenges (including anxiety, depression, OCD, Eating Disorders & ADHD), I have the expertise you’re looking for. I also have extensive experience supporting those with acute & chronic medical conditions, bereavement & trauma (I am trauma-informed-care educated). Additionally, my experience serving diverse populations has fueled my passion for helping others navigate social, medical and educational inequities.
(562) 684-6036 View (562) 684-6036
Photo of Patrick Cleveland, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patrick Cleveland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Taking the first step toward getting help is the hardest part and I understand that. I am the founder & clinical director of Daybreak Counseling Center. We are an elite & dedicated group of therapists. We focus on providing a safe and nonjudgemental environment in order to help you speak freely, share your story, ask questions, and face any issues that arise. In beginning this inquiry, today you are one step closer to finding answers and solutions. Whether you are feeling down, anxious, confused, have relationship issues, or just want to grow emotionally and learn more about yourself, therapy can help. Your mental health matters!
Taking the first step toward getting help is the hardest part and I understand that. I am the founder & clinical director of Daybreak Counseling Center. We are an elite & dedicated group of therapists. We focus on providing a safe and nonjudgemental environment in order to help you speak freely, share your story, ask questions, and face any issues that arise. In beginning this inquiry, today you are one step closer to finding answers and solutions. Whether you are feeling down, anxious, confused, have relationship issues, or just want to grow emotionally and learn more about yourself, therapy can help. Your mental health matters!
(562) 285-9957 View (562) 285-9957
Photo of Melissa Alvarez, amft, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Melissa Alvarez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, amft
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Life can throw different challenges at you at any time and struggle can show up in our lives in many ways. This can naturally create feelings of discouragement or discomfort that present in life through our thoughts, behaviors, and feelings. Sometimes it can be hard to open up about it, but as your therapist I want you to have a place to do just that. My role is to join you in your journey of overcoming those challenges and struggles and take steps toward your goals. I am currently registered in California as an associate MFT. I have years of experience working in school, remote and in-person settings.
Life can throw different challenges at you at any time and struggle can show up in our lives in many ways. This can naturally create feelings of discouragement or discomfort that present in life through our thoughts, behaviors, and feelings. Sometimes it can be hard to open up about it, but as your therapist I want you to have a place to do just that. My role is to join you in your journey of overcoming those challenges and struggles and take steps toward your goals. I am currently registered in California as an associate MFT. I have years of experience working in school, remote and in-person settings.
(562) 414-4976 View (562) 414-4976
Photo of Dr. James Earhart, PhD, NCSP, Psychologist
Dr. James Earhart
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Waitlist for new clients
As a licensed clinical psychologist and nationally certified school psychologist, I have experience working with a wide range of childhood and parenting issues. I have worked in schools, clinics, hospitals, research centers, and have also taught at the graduate-level. My approach involves first deeply understanding the multiple aspects of a person's situation and then using research-based treatments and processing to provide support. I am especially interested in helping boys and young men navigate these complicated times along with helping fathers who are interested strengthen their relationship with their children.
As a licensed clinical psychologist and nationally certified school psychologist, I have experience working with a wide range of childhood and parenting issues. I have worked in schools, clinics, hospitals, research centers, and have also taught at the graduate-level. My approach involves first deeply understanding the multiple aspects of a person's situation and then using research-based treatments and processing to provide support. I am especially interested in helping boys and young men navigate these complicated times along with helping fathers who are interested strengthen their relationship with their children.
(714) 930-2542 View (714) 930-2542
Photo of Lindsey Sterling - The Sterling Institute for Autism, PhD, Psychologist
The Sterling Institute for Autism
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
We are a group practice, providing collaborative, evidence-/ strength-based treatment (therapy, process/dating groups, parent consultation, medication management) and diagnostic assessment for neurodiverse children, teens, and adults. We are a team of autism and neurodiversity (i.e., autism, ADHD, twice exceptional) experts who are passionate about helping people identify and celebrate their strengths while validating and supporting their challenges. We provide early/first-time evaluations for autism as well as more nuanced assessments for youth, teens, and adults who need diagnostic clarity and help prioritizing next steps.
We are a group practice, providing collaborative, evidence-/ strength-based treatment (therapy, process/dating groups, parent consultation, medication management) and diagnostic assessment for neurodiverse children, teens, and adults. We are a team of autism and neurodiversity (i.e., autism, ADHD, twice exceptional) experts who are passionate about helping people identify and celebrate their strengths while validating and supporting their challenges. We provide early/first-time evaluations for autism as well as more nuanced assessments for youth, teens, and adults who need diagnostic clarity and help prioritizing next steps.
(562) 207-5417 View (562) 207-5417
1

See more therapy options for Los Alamitos

Toddler Therapists

What are the behavioral signs indicating a toddler might need counseling?

Common behavioral signs that a child may need counseling include high levels of emotional distress or anxiety, learning challenges, interpersonal conflict, anger, or social withdrawal. Any drastic changes in toddler behavior or self-esteem can be indicative that a child may benefit from therapy. Seeing a therapist at the early stages of any behavioral changes can be most impactful on behavior, as well as helpful to caregivers who may receive guidance on what symptoms to look for in their child in the future, even if therapy is not warranted at that time.

Can a two-year-old see a psychologist?

Children and adults of all ages can see psychologists and other forms of mental health professionals, such as counselors, psychiatrists, and social workers. Families seeking therapy for their toddler should just be aware that any guidance they seek should come from a professional who has specific experience working with young children, as well as the specific modalities that are appropriate for young children, such as play therapy.

What is the most effective type of therapy for toddlers and preschoolers?

In general, play therapy is the most effective and common form of therapy for young children. Play therapy helps facilitate behavior change by offering an age-appropriate way for children to express their emotions and develop more effective coping strategies. Toddlers with specific concerns may benefit from more specialized forms of therapy, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for toddlers in families in which there is significant parent-child relational conflict.

What happens during therapy sessions for toddlers?

What occurs in therapy sessions for toddlers depends on the therapeutic approach being used by the therapist. Most toddler therapists will use some form of play therapy in sessions to encourage toddler engagement. In play therapy sessions, children are encouraged to use toys within the therapy setting to express their emotions; subsequent responses by the therapist and/or family members can help guide toddler behavior and behavior change. Toddler therapy sessions can also involve family therapy or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), which can help improve parenting behaviors and reduce strain on families.